How Does an Electric Actuator Work?

An electric actuator is a mechanical device used to convert electricity into kinetic energy in either a single linear or rotary motion. It automates damper or valve in order to increase process efficiency and complexity. Designs for electric actuators are based on the specific tasks they accomplish within the processes for which they’re intended, and they can vary in both dimension and size.

There are now more applications for electric actuators due to the movement toward massively increased decentralization taking place in automation technology. New process controllers can now be equipped on last-generation electric actuators, which makes it simpler to meet recently updated automation standards. Thanks to failsafe capabilities that preserve user control over the process even in the event of power loss, using electric actuators is now safer than ever before.

Main Components of an Electric Actuator

The motor of an electric actuator can operate on any voltage and is used across many different industries. The most common voltages used in single-phase motors are

· 115 VAC

· 24 VAC

· 12 VDC

· 24 VDC

· 208 VAC

· 230 VAC

In addition to these options, three-phase motors also use voltages of 230 VAC and 460 VAC.

An actuator’s brake is mounted on top of the motor. It’s responsible for stopping the media from forcing the valve open when it should be closed by locking the motor rotor in position when not in use.

The motor start capacitor is the third main component of an electric actuator with AC motor. It gives the motor enough power to start. Electric actuators with DC motors do not require a capacitor.

The final critical component of an electric actuator is the two single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) end of travel limit switches. One is for the closed position, and the other is for the open position. These switches provide the adequate number of electrical contacts in the immediate, closed, and open positions.

Applications: Where are Electric Actuators Used?

Electric actuators appear in a number of industries. Typically, they’re used in industrial applications associated with manufacturing valves, pumps, and motors. They most commonly automate industrial valves, and many types of technical process plants use them, including:

· Upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas plants

· Wastewater treatment plants

· Power plants

· Food and beverage plants

· Farming and agricultural plants

· Pulp and paper plants

Common Questions and Answers

How is an AC two-position electric actuator wired?

The terminal strip connects the wires with several pins. Pin 1 is almost always the neutral line. Pins 2 and 3 are the hot line for the closed and open positions. A relay, such as a control switch, splits the hot line.

Does the actuator ship in the closed or open position?

While our standard is to ship in the closed position, we are able to ship in the open position upon request. Additionally, our two-position calibration standard is 0-90° but we can set up travel all the way to 270°.

What if the valve is not closed or opened completely?

Loosening the set screw and rotating the cams to the right or left into the wanted position allows you to adjust the cams. The objective is to make the actuator rotate slightly further to completely open or close the valve. Installers and maintenance technicians repeat this operation in both the closed and open positions until they’re satisfied.

Do you need to apply steady power to an electric actuator?

Either pins 1 and 2 or pins 1 and 3 will always have power. Limit switches cut power to the motor when the actuator has achieved the necessary position, be that closed or open.

Do you really need a start capacitor and a brake on an electric actuator?

On an AC voltage electric actuator, you will always need a motor start capacitor to give the motor enough power to start. In the closed position, the energized brake holds the motor in place. Without a mounted brake, especially on butterfly valves and damper, there’s a risk that the force of the media within the pipes will push the valve, slightly opening it. The actuator detects the open valve and ensures it rotates back to the completely closed position. This action repeats over and over as the media continuously pushes the valve open. Eventually, this oscillation will damage the motor and actuator

Quality Electric Actuators from Indelac Controls

Electric actuators convert electricity into kinetic energy either in a rotary motion or a single linear direction. They automate manual valve functions to improve efficiency and are a critical part of many applications across several industries.

Here at Indelac Controls, we’re dedicated to providing excellent, timely service for our customers. We use state-of-the-art machinery during every step of the manufacturing process to ensure the highest-quality products.

We offer quarter-turn and spring-turn electric actuators as well as internal battery backup actuators. For more information on electric actuators, download our new eBook about electric actuators.